SIU International Festival peaks today with food fair

The cultural diversity that has long been an integral part of Southern Illinois University Carbondale takes center stage during the annual International Festival this week.

"Shaping International Unity" is the 2019 theme, highlighting the students from nearly 100 countries who call SIU home, and who will share a bit of their culture with the region.

The International Food Fair offers a unique opportunity to sample dishes from across the globe. International students, under the supervision of dining services personnel, will prepare an eclectic mix of treats from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6. Everyone is invited to the Student Center Ballrooms. Food tickets are $1 each at the door, and each dish typically takes 3-6 tickets. Complete meal options will also be available.

The fest wraps up at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8 with the SIU Cultural Show in the Student Center Ballrooms. The event will feature diverse student performances of drama, dance, song and much more.

The show, which is often standing room only, is free and open to the public.

For more information about International Festival 2019, look online or call (618) 453-5714.